October 23, 2024 by SME Communications The inaugural Upstate Technology Social, a collaboration between OpExchange, SCMEP, SME, and their member companies, marked a successful event that highlighted innovation and partnership in the Upstate SME manufacturing community. Hosted at SEW EURODRIVE's advanced Maxolution facility, the event offered a glimpse into the cutting-edge advancements shaping the industry. Attendees were welcomed with a digital display near registration, showcasing opportunities within the Upstate SME chapter. SME hosts maintained a lively environment, supported by creative event tokens that complemented the Carolina Handling-sponsored beverage station. SEW Eurodrive's interactive exhibits featured demonstrations of AGVs, providing insight into smart manufacturing tools. Participants had the chance to engage with Augmented Reality, thanks to EAC, and explored 3D scanning use cases presented by Digitize Designs. These hands-on experiences highlighted the potential of these technologies for applications like workforce training, quality control, and continuous improvement. The event emphasized collaboration, with Schunk and Fanuc showcasing the benefits of working together in the automation space. Their partnership extended to co-sponsoring a BBQ dinner, fostering a sense of community among attendees. The Upstate Technology Social underscored the dynamic manufacturing landscape in the Upstate region, creating a space for professionals to network, share ideas, and build new relationships. With strong attendance and engaging discussions, the event established itself as an essential gathering for those interested in the future of manufacturing.
